INDIANA – A new report released Tuesday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates an increase in the rate of autism diagnoses among children in the United States. The data reveals that approximately 1 in every 31 children were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by the age of 8 in 2022, a rise from the 1 in 36 reported in 2020.
While the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently announced a new research initiative to understand the causes behind what HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. termed “the autism epidemic,” the CDC report suggests that improved diagnostic practices significantly contribute to the observed increase.
The CDC report highlights advancements in screening and diagnostic tools and increased awareness and understanding of autism among healthcare professionals and the public. These factors likely lead to more children being identified with autism at an earlier age.
The Autism Society of America has also addressed the interpretation of the rising prevalence data, strongly refuting the notion of an “autism epidemic.” The organization emphasized that the data should not be used to fuel misinformation or political rhetoric.
“It is likely you know or love someone with autism, and we need credible, science-based research to understand better autism, its contributing factors, and the diversity of needs across the spectrum,” said Christopher Banks, president and CEO of the Autism Society. The organization stressed the importance of focusing on providing support and resources for individuals with autism and their families, rather than promoting unfounded fears.
The CDC’s latest findings underscore the ongoing need for continued research into autism, its diverse presentations, and effective interventions. Experts emphasize that the increasing diagnosis rates likely reflect a positive trend towards earlier identification and access to necessary support services for individuals on the autism spectrum.
